Hot Topic: The Problem Isn’t “Profound Autism” — It’s the Label Itself

In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott respond to the growing media push to divide the autism spectrum — including a recent New York Times article that introduced the term “profound autism.”They make it clear: the issue isn’t with autistic people who have higher support needs — it’s with the language, labels, and ableist frameworks used to define them. Jordan and Simon explore how separating the spectrum into categories like “high” and “low functioning” or “profound” and “mild” only deepens stigma, misunderstanding, and division within the autistic community.Together, they discuss:Why the “profound autism” label is harmful and reductiveThe New York Times article that reignited this debateHow language shapes perception, policy, and empathyThe autism spectrum is an umbrella that unites, not dividesWhy all autistic experiences — regardless of support needs — belong togetherThe need for compassion, inclusion, and respect across the entire spectrumThis episode calls out fear-based narratives and reframes the conversation around what truly matters: understanding, dignity, and unity for every autistic person — no matter where they sit under the spectrum umbrella.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.